In the September Spring Break, after a three-year hiatus, 30 students and three staff embarked on a magic, life-time experience in Queenstown, New Zealand.
Students had the opportunity of spring skiing at the Remarkables and Cardrona, as well as experiencing the adrenaline- charged activities on offer in and around the beautiful city. They students savoured many invaluable life-long memories together.
As with any overseas adventure, we encountered some unpredictable weather, however we were able to be flexible with the program to suit the weather conditions, allowing for a wonderful steamboat experience on the H.M.S Earnslaw, ice skating, trampolining and more. The unpredictable weather also provided us with a blessing of 40 cm plus of fresh snow for our days on the slopes!
Our unique experience encouraged students to challenge themselves skiing or snowboarding and through other challenge by choice activities, improving their self-esteem, developing team work and leadership qualities, as well as forming positive relationships with their peers.
The following student reflections capture their highlights from the experience. We aim to offer the ski trip for Year 10 and Year 11 students again in September 2024 (more detail to be distributed in Term 1, 2024).
Year 10 Student - Greta Douglas
I went on the ski trip this year and really enjoyed it. I absolutely loved the opportunities given to us to explore the beautiful town of Queenstown and the many activities we were able to enjoy as a collective. It was an amazing opportunity to be able to connect with some of the Year 11's and also with the wonderful teachers who made this trip possible. Even though we did experience some disturbance to our jam-packed itinerary, Mrs Rebgetz, Mrs Lee and Mr Obst were amazing in making sure that we did not miss out on anything! My favourite part of the trip would have had to be our days on the snow, where I'm sure all of the students were shocked and amazed at the incredible skill the teachers showed. One of my favourite memories from the trip was when on the last day we all had a massive snowball fight where all of the students were able to throw snowballs at our amazing Principal, Mrs Rebgetz. I am really grateful I was able to go on this trip because it really helped me to connect with others in an amazing environment and also taught me the need to be flexible!
Year 11 Student - Taylah Morris
The ski trip was such a fun experience and a great opportunity to connect with students from Year 10 and 11. Despite some unpredictable weather, all our activities on our rainy days, whilst the mountains were closed, were so much fun and helped us to see more of Queenstown whilst we were there. I was snowboarding and had so much fun re-learning my snowboard skills in great snow conditions. The ski trip has given me memories I will cherish forever and formed connections with people I did not expect to connect with.
Year 10 Student - Lily Belcher
Our school ski trip to Queenstown, NZ was an unforgettable adventure. Although we had two ski days being cancelled due to weather, the trip was a blast. The camaraderie among fellow students was remarkable, fostering lasting friendships. The positive attitudes when plans changed were inspiring, turning disappointment into excitement for other activities. We filled our days with laughter, delicious meals, and funny skiing tumbles. The steamboat ride offered breathtaking scenery, adding a picturesque touch to our journey. Queenstown undoubtedly stole the spotlight, offering an experience filled with joy, bonding, and beautiful memories we'll cherish forever.
Alita Lee
Deputy Principal